William Henry Pritchett, Jr., of Mariner’s Mark Way in Virginia Beach, passed away on Monday, February 7. He was in his eightieth year.
Mr. Pritchett was born and raised in Richmond, VA, and graduated from Benedictine High School in that city. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Richmond Professional Institute and his Master of Commerce Degree from the University of Richmond.
In 1969 he and his family moved to Virginia Beach where he became a principal in the Advertising firm of Lawler Ballard, Adv.
He was a veteran of the US Air Force during the Korean War and a member of Holy Family Catholic Church.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ruby Ann Reed Pritchett, five children: Carol Cason and her husband Tom of St. Petersburg, Fl, Scott Pritchett and his wife Mary of Virginia Beach, Steve Pritchett and his wife Becky of Great Falls, VA, Cathy Aiello of Virginia Beach, and Chris Pritchett and his wife Felicia of Santa Clara, CA.
He was blessed with 10 grandchildren: Bradley Cason, Afton Pritchett, Ashley Pritchett, Eric Pritchett, Danny Pritchett, Austin Pritchett, Nicky Pritchett, Clay Aiello, Ocean Aiello, and Fiona Pritchett.
A celebration of his life will take place at 11:00 AM Saturday, February 12, at Holy Family Catholic Church at 1279 North Great Neck Road in Virginia Beach.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Food Pantry of Holy Family Catholic Church or Hands Across Mathews at P.O. Box 1303 Mathews, Virginia 23109.
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Father…Mentor…Confidante….Compass…Friend…these words flash through my mind as I strive to convey what dad brought to this world we live in. Upon reflection, I find myself dwelling not on this moment in time, but basking in the warm afterglow of his life and its lasting impact on me, my family, and so many people who were privileged to know him. Safe travels, Dad, and Thanks!
Bill was profoundly influential in both my professional and personal life and part of the reason for who I am today. I am proud to have worked with him and honored to have been his friend.
My condolences to your family.
My condolences to the family.
I can still remember Mr. Pritchett’s laugh when, as a teenager, I called the Pritchett’s house instead of my boyfriend’s house and asked to speak with “Billy”. Mr. Pritchett played along as “Billy”… for only a few minutes because he knew it was me. But he couldn’t stop himself from laughing… and of course then I was so embarrassed.
My condolences to all.
Dad has touched so many peoples lives. He was such a classic gentleman who knew the right things to say and the right things to do. He was a selfless man who went out of his way to make everyone happy. He did such a great job raising and providing for us. I learned so many things from him. From managing finances to telling jokes. He was the best man I’ve ever known. I only hope that I can be as good of father. Rest in Peace Dad.
Pritch’s influence on my life – professionally and personally can’t be measured. He was a major factor in my hiring at Lawler Ballard where he was my mentor and advisor for over 15 years…but best of all, he was my friend. During those great years, we spoke almost every day, even though I was in Atlanta or Cincinnati and he was in Norfolk. I will never, ever forget his interest in my success or his willingness to listen, and help solve any problem I had – with my positon at LBA or in life. Pritch could get to the nut of a situation faster and easier than anyone I know. His advice was always “right”. I will miss him more than I can express. Heaven will be better now that he is there. Ruby Ann, my thoughts, prayers and sympathy are with you and the family.
Ruby Ann, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Bill was such a vital part of LBA all those years. Bev held him in such high regard and always a trusted friend. I hope they meet again.
Scotty and family, sorry to learn that Mr Pritchett passed. Our thoughts are certainly with you all.
Ruby Ann and Family –
Although we have been Mariner’s Mark residents for a relatively short time, I enjoyed chatting with Bill on different occasions. As a former p.r.and advertising executive for a big corporation, I thought that Lawler Ballard under Bill’s guidance was the gold standard for advertising firms.
May he rest in peace and may you find solace in Bill’s many accomplishments and devotion to the most important things in life.
Dad was such a great guy 24/7, but his sense of humor had to be my favorite characteristic! It’s so good to grow up laughing and happy. Thanks, Dad. I will miss you more than you know.
Scotty and Family, I very sorry for your loss. He had his roots here now his has his wings. God Bless and God Speed.
I’m so happy to have known Pritch. His steady hand and good humor kept LBA moving in the right direction and entertained all at the same time. I still chuckle when I think about him telling the story of how your family camped out at Seashore State Park and he showered and got dressed for work at the bath house there while you all waited for your house to be ready.
It was my pleasure to have served with Bill on the Mariners Mark Board of Directors. Although we have not lived here very long, I know Bill worked hard to provide great leadership for his community.
We just returned home and were so saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. We’re profoundly sorry we missed his memorial service.
Bill was such a pleasure, as a volunteer, as a neighbor and as a friend. It was an honor to have known him!
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ruby Ann and their family.